There are different levels of park rangers. Some are hired to work temporarily during the summer. Others are hired for permanent full-time positions. There are a few things that can determine a starting park ranger salary, such as the park agency (federal or state), the size of the park and the scope of the job, the park ranger position (protective park ranger, cultural park ranger etc.), education, and experience. Since most park rangers work for the government, they also have health care and pension plans on top of salary.

Individuals who gain experience and time on the job may move to higher paying salaries, such as park superintendent, or park director. Retired park managers sometimes move into law enforcement positions.